Nestled between Mt. Datun, Mt. Xiaoguanyin, and Mt. Qixing, Zhuzihu was formed hundreds of thousands of years ago as a volcanic barrier lake. After the water drained, a basin remained that wasnamed after the lush growth of bamboo forests that once swayed like waves in the wind. Characterized by a cool, rainy climate, the area was settled by Han immigrants in the 18th century and became the “Cradle of Ponlai Rice” during the Japanese era. Evolving from highland vegetable farming to modern floriculture and agritourism, Zhuzihu now features a unique landscape where low-altitude forests, wetland paddies, and local settlements coexist.

The mosaic landscape of Zhuzihu serves not only as a home for residents but also as a vital sanctuary for wildlife. Red-bellied Watersnakes, Small Snakeheads, and Paradise Fish weave through the marshes and ditches. Common Windmill butterflies and White-spotted Damselflies dance above the water, while Chinese Tree Toads hide within Shell Ginger leaves. As Striped-necked Turtles bask in the sun, Kingfishers, Black Drongos, White-breasted Waterhens, and Egrets forage nearby, all while Black Kites soar gracefully overhead.

Diverse creatures are linked through intricate food webs. From insects and amphibians to reptiles and birds, each plays a unique role inbridging wetland and forest ecosystems. To farmers, these animals are vital allies: frogs and birds control pests, while raptors reduce rodent populations, ensuring healthier crops. This natural balance creates a thriving environment where a high level of  biodiversity and abundant harvests go hand in hand.

This mosaic landscape is more than just terrain; it is a shared ecosystem. Residents live in harmony with nature, using resources wisely to support their livelihoods while protecting wildlife. This represents a sustainable model integrating ecology, production, and living.

As dusk falls and visitors depart, many crepuscular and nocturnal wetland creatures are just beginning to stir.

Marshes, paddies, and ditches create a diversity of habitats. Algae and plants feed snails, tadpoles, and loaches while offering shelter. These smaller creatures are prey to aquatic insects like dragonfly nymphs and water scorpions. Rare top predators—Swamp Eels, Snakeheads, and Watersnakes—hunt frogs and loaches. Semi-aquatic Yellow Pond Turtles forage on slopes, while Kraits hunt across land and water. Yellow Bitterns hide in marshes to feed, whereas Night Herons hunt in open waters.

Creatures large and small rely on one another to maintain a fragile ecological balance. The loss of any single link could trigger a chain reaction, threatening the ecosystem services that human residents depend on. To protect this wetland, the Yangmingshan National Park Headquarters collaborates with private groups and locals to promote eco-friendly farming. By reducing the use of chemicals, they ensure safer crops and a pristine landscape for visitors, creating a model of harmonious coexistence between people and nature.